The object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul. ~ G.K. Chesterton

In 2010’s year-in-review post I closed with these words: “My life has been such a roller coaster in recent years that I no longer try to imagine where each new year will take me. I have no idea where I’m going in 2011 but I’m looking forward to the journey.”

I was a wise woman a year ago.

2011 was a wild year.

When I think of 2011 I think of one word: expensive.

In June I bought a new (to me) car. I knew exactly the type of car that I wanted and more than one arrogant salesman told me I’d never find it.

Ha!

Not only did I find it, but I found it in less than one week.

The moral to this story: never underestimate a crazy dog lady.

My other major expense came in September when Luka had emergency surgery. I may grumble and gripe about how much that dog cost me but I am so very thankful he made a full recovery.

Despite Luka’s attempt at death-by-garbage, 2011 was a year where I did not experience the loss of a pet. (Long time blog readers know that such years have been rare lately.) I am so happy that everyone is here and (most importantly) healthy.

Sadie lost 4 lbs. this year for a total of 32 lbs. since I adopted her. Ideally, the vet said she should lose a couple more pounds but she’s finally at the point where she’s at a healthy weight. Her obesity left its mark (arthritis in her knees) but it doesn’t really bother her and she continues to love to run.

With the notable exception of September, it’s been a good year for Luka. The furry guy continues to surprise me (in good ways).

Just a few days ago I pulled over to let an ambulance pass. As the vehicle approached (lights flashing and siren wailing) I suddenly heard a low, mournful howl from the back of the car. Luka was wooing! It was only the second time he’s done it and it was so cool. He’s a challenging, silly boy and I’m so happy he’s okay.

As I hoped for last year, Romeo and Milo have become friends.

They play together nearly every day and while Milo sometimes gets too rough (Romeo is 15 so I’m very watchful of their playing) they also enjoy quiet moments together.

The biggest pet shocker of this year has been the taming of Luka at the hands paws of Milo. I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would ever see this in my house.

Luka still has his moments of being a jerk to the cats (he loves to chase them) but these moments are now rare and usually stop with a Milo paw to the face.

This taming of Luka has led to Romeo becoming more outgoing. Romeo doesn’t have claws, but I don’t think Luka realizes that. All Romeo has to do is pick up his paw and Luka stops being a pain.

To say that Milo is a joy is an understatement. He has been the perfect addition to the family and I am so glad I found him.

There wasn’t a lot of knitting this year. I finished four pairs of socks and one scarf.

One sweater is still in progress.

My yarn diet is nearly intact after two years. I only broke it this year to buy the Homespun needed for the above scarf.

The summer of 2011 was another summer of adventure. Each weekend was spent exploring the trails

and splashing in the water.

Our hiking season came to a screeching halt when Luka had surgery but as soon as the snow melts in the spring we’ll be back on the trails.

I followed you throughout the year, but it was lovely to read about it again. The photos are just awesome, and I think the one with Luka and Milo looking out the window is my favorite today.
Happy New Year to you and your furry family!

I’m happy for you that all your critters remain intact through another year! I’m surprised you didn’t weave the bear-sighting experience in your summary of the year’s events with the fur babies. ;-) Happy New Year to you and your furry crew!